Karla’s Story: How Affordable Housing Was The Key

For Karla, finding an affordable home wasn’t just about shelter, it was the key to keeping her family together.

Two years ago, Karla was facing a decision no mother should ever have to make.

She was working hard, barely staying afloat in Miami, with rent that kept rising, and raising two young kids in a space that was far too small for their growing needs. The numbers didn’t add up.

“I was contemplating moving and possibly leaving my children behind because their dad lives here and he was not going to be moving. And who wants to be far from their children, right?”

It wasn’t what she wanted. It was what survival looked like. 

“It was that sacrifice on my own… like, okay, it's just temporary. I would move somewhere where I could save some money. And then, maybe we can talk about sharing time, or maybe I can come back and afford something.”

But Karla couldn’t give up. Not on her kids. Not on herself.

“That really was driving a wedge in my own spirit… Looking at myself in the mirror and saying, There's gotta be something more coming. There must be something out there that can help me.”

"There's gotta be something more coming. There must be something out there that can help me."

And then, something came.

“So when the application [to a Habitat home] was presented to me, that was more of a positive message… like, look, this is a first step. Something was coming.”

Through Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami, and with support from Hard Hats and High Heels, Karla became one of nine single moms whose homes were sponsored by the event. A real home. One she could afford. One she and her children could grow in.

Today, Karla is a proud homeowner. Her kids have their own bedrooms. There’s laughter in the backyard. A new dog running around. Neighborhood friends stopping by. Peace in her heart.

“It really has brought me so much joy, and I feel so complete now that I am not only able to offer something for my children, but I am also offering something for myself, right? So, we are all growing here.”

Her voice is calm now. Her smile is real. The struggle didn’t disappear, it transformed into something stronger. Hope. Security. Joy.

The 10th Annual Hard Hats & High Heels Cocktail Reception and Silent Auction is just around the corner; June 5th, 2025. Be part of the impact!

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